Virginia Beach, Va. – Robert “Bob” Robins has been recognized as a Living Legend of Tidewater Council. He was honored by Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America, at its Recognition Banquet on May 15, 2024, at the Khedive Shrine Center in Chesapeake.

The Living Legends of Tidewater Council award recognizes well-known living volunteers who have generously given untold amounts of their time, resources, and talents to the Scouting program. Tidewater Council’s service area encompasses the Virginia cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach, and seven northeastern North Carolina counties.

Bob, a true pillar of the Pipsico “Lumberjacks,” has dedicated countless hours to the Scouting movement. His contributions span a wide range of projects, from the creation of the Awesome Field arch to the development of the Huskanaw area, the construction of the entrance to the Scoutcraft area, the establishment of the Axe Yard, and the removal of numerous hazardous trees from the property.

Most recently, he took on the challenge of being project lead for the pool shower house demolition and renovation. Bob’s leadership and physical efforts have saved the council more than $20,000 on this project.

Bob also has a long history of servant leadership at the unit level. Beginning as a committee member of Pack 375 in 2006, he served as Cubmaster through 2016. He rose to every challenge, selflessly working to keep the unit going and organized. Stepping into the role of Scoutmaster of Troop 775 in 2010 (while also serving as a Cubmaster), he led a unit to become one of Tidewater Council’s finest examples of embracing diversity and inclusion.

Serving a youth population of those with lesser means, the youth of his unit never went without. He often personally sacrificed financially and through time commitments to provide for them and his family. Once youth females were invited to join, he and his wife supported the formation of Troop 5775, serving the same population as his male troop.

Under Bob’s leadership, Troop 775 became noted for its spring break trips. Spending a week at a distant location (sometimes Washington, D.C.), Scouts got to experience adventures they wouldn’t have had the opportunity to experience otherwise.

His innovative spirit was a beacon of light during the pandemic. He took it upon himself to create a weekend program, the Huskanaw First Year Camper Weekend, for new Scouts who missed summer camp in 2020. Bob’s initiative maintained their interest in Scouting and showcased his unwavering commitment to ensuring the program’s continuity despite unprecedented challenges. His actions during this difficult time inspired hope for the program’s future.

Bob’s selfless service has not only allowed dozens of his units’ youth to grow and thrive through the Scouting program but has also benefited thousands more. The improvements he spearheaded at Pipsico Scout Reservation, alongside the tireless efforts of others under his leadership, have made a lasting impact. Thousands more will continue to benefit from these improvements for years, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Bob received the Living Legend of Tidewater Council honor alongside fellow Scout leaders Mick Meyer and Larry Ritter, both of Virginia Beach.